Todd Zakrajsek

Todd Zakrajsek, an expert in college teaching and author of "Classroom Assessment Techniques," explores pivotal strategies for engaging learners. He emphasizes the importance of understanding student anxieties around assessments, advocating for interactive methods to enhance comprehension. Zakrajsek highlights the balance between formative and summative assessments while sharing anecdotes from psychology classes. He also discusses fostering critical thinking, the necessity of meaningful assessments, and shares tools like virtual brainstorming to transform classroom dynamics.

Todd Zakrajsek discusses how generative AI can enhance Classroom Assessment Techniques, shifting to learner-centered instruction. The episode explores the evolution of CATs, the impact on teaching practices, and the role of AI in higher education. It also touches on empowering neurodivergent learners through the new science of learning.

Todd Zakrajsek on episode 455 of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast. Quotes from the episode Sometimes you just don’t know where a class is going to go. -Todd Zakrajsek There are great advantages to looking at things from different perspectives. -Todd Zakrajsek Resources Teaching at Its Best: A Research-Based Resource for College Instructors, by Todd Zakrajsek and Linda B Nilson Lilly Conferences Dear Committee Members, by Julie Schumacher The Shakespeare Requirement, by Julie Schumacher ‘Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.’ – Ian MacLaren The New Science of Learning 3e, by Todd Zakrajsek Lindy Hop SaneBox Affiliate income disclosure: Books that are recommended on the podcast link to the Teaching in Higher Ed bookstore on Bookshop.org. All affiliate income gets donated to the LibroMobile Arts Cooperative (LMAC), established in 2016 by Sara Rafael Garcia.”

Todd Zakrajsek discusses the ones too often left behind in higher education, including neurodiverse learners, first-gen students, and marginalized groups. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by students in higher education. The episode also explores obtaining permission to share personal stories in the classroom and the benefits of color picker apps.

Todd Zakrajsek, an Associate Research Professor at UNC Chapel Hill, explores essential strategies for college success. He discusses how freshmen often struggle with evidence-based learning techniques and the importance of understanding cognitive load and metacognition. The impact of sleep, nutrition, and exercise on academic performance is highlighted, alongside practical advice for time management, especially for students with ADHD. Todd also shares insights on the writing process and the role of editing in enhancing productivity.